What makes the best comic book covers? It is a great topic for debate. For us, as individuals, there is no wrong answer, of course; it is purely subjective. But, with a little thought it’s possible to explain what it is about a particular image that grabs you. The best images are the ones that make you stop and check out something you weren’t previously planning to purchase – and in some cases, you even end up picking up a title you’ve never even heard of before.

Experimental. Exciting. Everlasting appeal.

All this describes Transformers/G.I. Joe #1, the memorable comic book release from the Pat Lee-owned production house that was Dreamwave Productions. The once hot comics company brought Hasbro’s “Real American Heroes” and mighty mecha that are “More Than Meets the Eye” to an alternate past where World War II found the Allies fighting the oppressive Cobra Empire – which was backed by the massive and malevolent Decepticons. Forming the special forces team codenamed “G.I. Joe,” the Allies teamed up with the Autobots to try to bring the evil empire crumbling down upon itself while bringing the Transformer meddling in Earth’s affairs to an end.    

Besides being a “Number One Issue Spectacular,” what really sells this book is the magnificent combination gatefold and wraparound cover by Jae Lee. Fans of his Namor at Marvel and Hellshock at Image will see sophistication in Lee’s pencils, and a maturity in his storytelling skills. Comic book veteran and Legend imprint co-founder John Byrne loved him, and what’s there not to love? Especially when you add ruins, robots, and roughnecks!

The cover is a must-have for fans of Lee and those who want a growth in their onetime Image superstars. Collected in trade paperback in the secondary market or found in finer comic book stores, this limited series brought Dreamwave to a new level – and it all started with this can’t miss issue that collectors should add to their arsenals.

-Scott Braden